How a longer wildfire season impacts firefighters’ mental health

BOULDER, Colo. (KDVR) — As wildfire season grows longer by the year in Colorado, the mental weight and responsibility of saving homes and lives from wildfires get heavier for first responders.

With several consecutive windy days in Boulder County, firefighters are more alert and prepared for fires to spread.

“There’s a general skill that firefighters and fire departments have to manage that level of stress,” Marya Washburn with Boulder Fire-Rescue said.

Washburn said fire departments, in general, are becoming more aware of the need to take care of firefighters’ mental health, especially during wildfire season and times of increased activity.